vasa star

Official publication of

THE VASA ORDER OF AMERICA

A Swedish-American Fraternal Organization

Organized September 18, 1896

JULY-AUGUST 2008

Messagefrom the

Grand Master

Vasa brothers and sisters!100th anniversary celebrations for DL Minnesota No. 7, DL

Lake Michigan No. 8, and my own lodge, Nobel-Monitor No.130, along with preparation for the GL Executive Board meet-ing, kept me rather busy in April and May. We also attended theDL New Jersey No. 6 convention in Cape May, NJ, and enjoyedrenewing friendships there. One sad note in all the celebrationswas hearing of the passing of DM Jim Nystedt, DL LakeMichigan No. 8, on the day his convention was to begin. Martyand I did have the honor of sharing a meal with him and hiswife about a month earlier during the DL Minnesota conven-tion, which they also attended. We appreciated the time togeth-er.

The Grand Lodge Executive Board made and important deci-sion during its three-day meeting in Frankenmuth MI, not toprint and mail the July/August issue of the Vasa Star in both2008 and 2009. The other five issues per year will be printedand distributed as normal. Instead Editor Marie Carlson andZimmermann Printing will produce an electronic version to beposted on the Vasa Order web site. So if you are reading thismessage you must have access to the internet or have had some-one print a copy for you from the website.

The reason for the decision is budgetary. For the first twoyears of my term as Grand Master the Vasa Star costs are overbudget by about $25,000, due almost solely to increased mailcosts, particularly to Sweden and Canada. By not printing anddistributing two issues the Grand Lodge will save about$24,000.

I understand that the Vasa Star is a very important part of thecommunication link between members of the Order and thatmany of you will be upset with this decision, particularly thosewho sent in articles and pictures. But the board also has anobligation to the Order to keep costs within that budgeted; thusthe decision. The Grand Secretary notified each local and dis-trict lodge secretary of the decision not to print so I hope thatthe word has spread. Please let editor Marie or me know whatyou think of the web-only issue.

The increased postage costs, while perplexing, led to a cre-ative solution for distribution of the Vasa Stars in Sweden.Instead of the current process of shipping Vasa Stars fromZimmermann to Sweden, we will use the Zimmermann pre-pared layout to print enough Vasa Stars in Sweden to satisfy theneeds of our Swedish members, and then mail these from theSwedish printer to the individual homes in Sweden. Based oncurrent quotes this process will cost about the same as the cur-rent shipping cost but will greatly improve service for ourSwedish members. They now will get the magazine in the mailrather than waiting for the next lodge meeting. Thanks to ToreTellberg, MGLEB, Sweden, for arranging for a printer inSweden as well as arranging for special postal permits.

The drawing for the three monetary raffle prizes from theraffle tickets printed in the March/April issue occurred on July3. Winners were drawn and have been notified. We hope tohave their names and pictures in the next issue of the Vasa Star.Thanks you for your contribution to DL Pennsylvania No. 9’shosting of the Grand Lodge convention in 2010.

Finally thanks to VGM Bill Lunquist for his handling of thescholarships and his message in the last issue.

Vasa Syskon!100-års jubileer i DL Minnesota Nr. 7, DL Lake Michigan

Nr. 8 och min egen loge, Nobel-Monitor Nr. 130, samt förbere-delse inför Storlogens Exekutiva Råds möte, har tagit mycket avmin tid i april och maj månad. Jag och Marty deltog också vidDL New Jersey Nr. 6:s möte i Cape May, NJ, där vi åter träf-fade många vänner. En sorglig händelse i allt firande var atthöra att DM Jim Nystedt, Lake Michigan Nr. 8, dog sammadag, som hans distriktsmöte skulle börja. Marty och jag hadeäran att intaga gemensam middag med honom och hans hustruungefär en månad tidigare, när vi var tillsammans för att fira DLMinnesotas jubileum.

Jag vill meddela ett viktigt beslut, som Storlogens ExekutiveRåd tog under de tre dagarnas möte i Frankenmuth, MI.Storlogens Exekutiva Råd beslutade att inte trycka eller dis-tribuera juli/augusti numret av Vasa Star, både år 2008 och år2009. De andra fem numren under året ska tryckas och dis-tribueras som vanligt. I stället ska redaktören Marie Carlssonoch Zimmermanns Tryckeri producera en elektronisk version avVasa Star, som ska införas på Vasa Ordens webbsida. Om niläser min skrivelse, vet jag att ni har åtkomst till Internet ochwebbsidan eller att någon tryckt en kopia till er av webbsidan.

Anledningen till ER:s beslut är budgeten. Under de första tvååren av min period som Stormästare, har kostnaden för VasaStar ökat med $25 000 över budget, på grund av ökad por-tokostnad, skärskilt till Sverige och Kanada. Om vi inte tryckeroch distribuerar dessa två nummer, kommer Storlogen att spararunt $24 000.

...De ökande postkostnaderna medför funderingar kring en

kreativ lösning, för hur vi skall distribuera Vasa Star till ochinom Sverige. I stället för att skicka Vasa Star frånZimmermanns Tryckeri till Sverige, har vi beslutat att trycka detantal Vasa Star som behövs i Sverige och posta en Vasa Star tillvarje medlems hemadress. Priset för att göra detta är inte mer änkostnaden för frakten från tryckeriet i USA till varje loge iSverige. Detta blir mycket bättre för svenska Vasamedlemmar,som då inte behöver vänta så länge eller deltaga i logemöte föratt få Vasa Star i sin hand. Tack till Tore Tellberg, MSLERSverige, för hans arrangemang av tryck i Sverige och posttill-stånd.

Rolf Bergman

Deadlines for The Vasa Star:Jan./Feb. is Dec. 1st July/Aug. is June 1stMarch/April is Feb. 1st Sept./Oct. is Aug. 1stMay/June is April 1st Nov./Dec. is Oct. 1st

Deadline for Christmas ads: October 15th

Deadline for Lucia articles is Dec. 24 – picture and article, 200 words or less.

Vasa Star July-August 2008

THE VASA STAR JULY-AUGUST 2008

Letter from the Editor

Brev från Redaktören

THE VASA STAR (USPS 657-020)July-August 2008

Vol. 101, No. 4, Serial 847

HEADQUARTERS:c/o Joan GrahamGrand Secretary5838 San Jose AvenueRichmond, CA 94804Phone: 510-526-5512E-mail: [email protected]

Grand Master:Rolf S. Bergman3236 Berkeley AvenueCleveland Heights, OH 44118Phone: 216-371-5141Fax: 216-274-9664E-mail: [email protected]

Editor:Marie Carlson9560 Curberry DriveMentor, OH 44060Phone: 440-255-4665E-mail: [email protected]

Circulation Manager:(Address Changes)

Cathy Anderson13194 N. Woosnam WayOro Valley, AZ 85755Phone: 520-219-9433E-mail:[email protected] bottom section of white copy ofapplication for new members to her.

Membership Chairman:Tore Kellgren5971 W. Walbrook DriveSan Jose, CA 95129Phone: 408-996-1970E-mail: [email protected]

Orders for advertising should be sent to:THE VASA STARMarie Carlson9560 Curberry DriveMentor, OH 44060Phone: 440-255-4665E-mail: [email protected]

THE VASA STAR (ISSN 0746-0627) ispublished bi-monthly by the VasaOrder of America. Periodicals postagepaid at Richmond, CA, and additionalentries.POSTMASTER: Send address changesto The Vasa Star, P.O. Box 69997, OroValley, AZ 85737-0025.

Published by:Vasa Order of America

vasaorder.com

Advertising Prices:Full Page Black and White $500.00Half Page Black and White $275.00Quarter Page Black and White $150.00 One Column Inch $ 30.00

Half Page Color $500.00Full Page Color $800.00Available only for inside front cover, insideback cover or back cover.

10% discount for Vasa Lodges and Members

This will be our first electronic issue of The Vasa Star accessed onlythrough our Vasa Web site where it can be viewed and printed. Our 2nd suchissue will be the Jul/Aug Vasa Star of 2009. The reason for making thischange is due to higher printing and mailing costs and we have to respect thatdecision. My hope is that each Lodge makes hardcopies available at yournext Lodge Meeting for those who do not have access to a computer or aprinter.

The word respect is a very “big” word, and can relate to many things, forexample why certain decision has to be made, why it is important to respectpeople/each person as an individual, and our environment. Desert VikingLodge #682 went on a trip to Joshua Tree National Park, and learned theimportance of why it is essential that we respect “the fragile balance in theecosystem”. Look at page 12.

Allemansrätten (Right of Public Access) is something very unique that the country of Sweden hasto offer, a privilege that is available to the Swedes but also something to regard and respect, some-thing Mother Nature has to offer. Find out more under Culture.

MarieAN IMPORTANT REMINDER: Obituaries received after July 1st, 2008, the cost structure will

be changed. The cost for up to one column inch will be $8.00; longer obituaries will be charged at theflat rate of $25.00.

Cover:Svanar i Sankt Anna

Sankt Anna ligger i Östgötaskärgården den störtsta skärgårdeni Sverige med mängder av Öar. Den östgötska skärgården är bety-dligt mer bevuxen än den i Göteborg som har mera kala klippor.

En av öarna är Sankt Anna som numera har en broförbindelse,ca 700 är fast boende och sommartid blir det dubbelt så många.

Andra kända öar är bl.a Harstena och Arkösund som nu skallbyggas till ett semesterparadis med hamnar och bostäder vid Piren.

Gryts skärgård tillhör samma område och kallas Blå Kustenoch sträcker sig från Oxelösund till Västervik. Många kända har ägtöar i området bl a Björn Borg.

Till Sankt Anna åker man genom Söderköping söder ut ochtar väg #210 så hamnar man på just Sankt Anna. Ön har ett riktfågelliv. Under båtbryggan har svalan sitt bo med ungar, “Svalanhar fått ungar och flyger i sin vik”, skrev Taube.

Bilden är tagen från Lagnöströmmen, Sankt Anna. Det är storsegeltrafik där hela sommaren eftersom många har seglat GötaKanal och tar av för att segla nedåt landet vartefter förbi Arkösund,Gryt och Harstena och sedan följa kusten ned mot Västervik ochÖland.

Omslaget på svanarna tog Inge här i viken.

Swans in St AnnaSt Anna is located in the Östgöta archipelago and is the largest

archipelago in Sweden with lots of islands. This archipelago hasmore vegetation compared to Gothenburg’s that consists mostly ofrocks.

One of these islands is Saint Anna that now has a bridge; it hasabout 700 permanent residents and doubles during the summermonths.

Some other famous islands are Harstena and Arkösund that isnow being transformed in to a “vacation paradise” that is going tooffer docks and housing right off the pier.

Gryts Archipelago is located along the same area and is calledBlå Kusten, (The Blue Coast), and stretches from Oxelösund toVästervik. Many famous people have owned islands in this area, forexample, Björn Borg.

You can get to St Anna by driving south through Söderköpingand take Rt 210; it will take you directly into St Anna. The islandhas a rich bird population. The swallows build their nests under thedocks where they raise their hatchlings, “Svalan har fått ungar ochflyger i sin vik” wrote Evert Taube, (The famous Swedish poet andsongwriter).

This picture is taken from Lagnöströmmen, St Anna. There aremany sailboats passing through this area during the summer sincemany has sailed down the Göta Canal and continue to sail downsouth passed Arkösund, Gryt and Harstena to be able to follow thecoastline towards Västervik and Öland. The picture of these swanson the cover, are taken near Lisbeth’s and Inge’s summer home.

Submitted by: Lisbeth Qvarfordt-HallbergPicture by: Inge Hallberg

Det här är vår första elektroniska upplaga av Vasastjärnan endast tillgänglig på vår Vasa Web sitedär man kan läsa och ev trycka ut ett exemplar. Vår andra elektroniska upplaga av Vasastjärnan kom-mer i Jul/Aug 2009. Orsaken till denna förändring är på grund av höjda tryck- och postavgifter, ettbeslut vi måste respektera. Min förhoppning är att varje loge trycker ut kopior tillgängliga för demsom inte har tillgång till en dator eller skrivare.

Ordet respekt är ett ”stort” ord, och som kan relateras till en hel del, t ex varför vissa beslut måstetas, varför det är så viktigt att respektera andra människor/varje person som individ och vår omgivn-ing. Desert Viking Lodge #682 gjorde en utflykt till Joshua Tree National Park och lärde sig varfördet är så viktigt att vi förstår och respekterar “den sköra balansen i vårt ekosystem”. Se sidan 12.

Allemansrätten är något unikt vi Sverige har att erbjuda, ett privilegium som är tillgängligt tillsvenskarna men också något vi måste vara aktsamma om och respektera, något vår natur har att erbju-da. Läs med under Culture.

MarieEN VIKTIG PÅMINNELSE: Från och med den 1:a juli är avgiften för Dödsannonser förändrad.

Kostnaden för en spalt inch (ca 3 cm) kommer att kosta $8.00 dollar, längre dödsannonser kommer attkosta $25.00


ARCHIVES NEWS

PAGE 10

PAGE 16

For three days in late May, the Archives had the pleasure of welcoming andmaking records available to Karen Snowberg who came to do research for the 100thanniversary of her local lodge, Freja #100 in White Plains, NY. She is a very activemember in the Order, since joining just ten years ago. She is currently Chairman ofFreja #100 in White Plains, NY, Cultural Leader of Göta Lejon #84 in YorktownHeights, NY and the newly elected District Master of New York District #4.

Ms. Snowberg’s itinerary, besides the stopover in Bishop Hill, included visitingwith her sister in McFarland, WI, spending time with friends from her teen years inSterling, IL, and teaching an early music seminar in Whitewater, WI. Though shehas lived in New York for thirty years, she still counts the Midwest as her true home

and probably will return to Wisconsin when she retires. In addition to being a professional musician, she isalso a successful businesswoman who works for a market research firm in Pleasantville, NY.

The majority of Ms. Snowberg’s work came from reading lodge minutes. She gained a treasure ofinformation from the first of these large bound volumes, beginning September 12, 1908, when Freja #100was initiated into the Order, through 1913. Beyond the normal listing of charter members and earlymotions to choose a name for the lodge and get the business concerns in good working order, she began topick up on different strains of information about the lodge. She noted, for instance, that Freja had oftenreceived requests from neighboring lodges, like Göta Lejon, to take part in various social events and partic-ipate in raffles. A network of unity among lodges immediately came into effect, where acts of supportamong members in good and bad times were not only encouraged but expected.

Keep in mind that these minutes are all in Swedish. Yes, Ms. Snowberg reads Swedish quite well withoccasional assistance from a dictionary. Her ancestors through her grandmother came from the southernsection of Öland in Degerhamn where she has visited on numerous family trips. Exposure to the languagein her travels and by taking Swedish classes back home has given her a very functional command of thelanguage. She says that she reads the language a good deal better than she speaks it, but even in speakingshe can get her message across when necessary.

Some of the highlights of her research included seeing in the first several decades of the lodge the com-passionate care people extended Vasa members in need. They would frequently take extra collectionsbeyond the regular sick fund to help the healing process of an ailing member. Freja Lodge even lent moneyacross state lines, for example to help a person in a Connecticut lodge get sorely needed benefits.

Ms. Snowberg found it heartening to follow the health of members, who received benefits and moralsupport while sick until they at last returned to lodge meetings frisk igen (healthy again). In one humorouscase (not so much at the time), a woman had applied for sick benefit but the committee sent out to greet herfound the woman not at home but out enjoying herself at Rye Beach! The woman bitterly complained laterin a letter about not receiving benefits, but the committee stood firm on its assessment of the situation.

During the 1920s the lodge held many formal balls, including even masked balls, but by the 1950sentertainment had switched to card games and square dances. During World War II, her lodge participatedin fund drives to support the American troops in Europe. Interestingly, Swedes in the U.S. arranged to sendcoffee to Sweden, apparently during particularly austere times in Sweden when rationing did not allowenough of this essential drink back in the homeland. She also noted with interest that there used to be thecustom on Memorial Day to decorate all the graves of past members with a small Vasa flag.

It was also interesting to see Swenglish in full force when the lodge switched to English in the middle1940s. “Kaffe” for “coffee,” “the” for “they” (think “de”), and “mayflour” for “mayflower” (majblomma)are a few examples.

There are many more details that came out of her research, but I wanted to share just a few as a celebra-tion of Ms. Snowberg’s effective use of the Vasa National Archives as a research center. The meeting min-utes are records that clearly have enduring historical value. I want to thank Karen Snowberg for demon-strating this value with such flare and focus. Lodge Freja #100 in White Plains will receive an excellentperspective on its history come September 12, 2008. We congratulate Freja on its hundred-year anniversaryand welcome members from other lodges to research its history at the Vasa Archives.

Sammanfattning på svenskaUnder tre dagar sent i maj, kom Karen Snowberg till Arkivet för att forska i sin loges långa historia.

Hennes loge, Freja #100 i White Plains, NY, firar nämligen sitt hundraårsjubileum nu i höst och Karenhåller på att samla information till en historisk överblick. Hon är en mycket aktiv medlem i Vasa Orden:Ordförande vid Freja #100, Kulturledare vid Göta Lejon #84 i Yorktown Heights, NY, och nyvaldDistriktsmästare av New York Distriktloge #4.

Medan hon var i USAs mellanvästern passade hon på att besöka sin syster i Wisconsin och vänner iIllinois. Hon kommer ursprungligen ifrån Wisconsin, men har bott i New York i trettio år. Som profes-sionell musiker håller hon seminarier i renässansmusik varje år i Wisconsin och som hon också gjordeunder denna resa. Förutom musiker är hon affärskvinna och arbetar på en marknadsföringsfirma iPleasantville, NY.

Eftersom Karen kan läsa svenska kunde hon använda sig av Frejalogens gamla protokollböcker.Genom att läsa protokollen, som började när Freja #100 grundades den 12:e September 1908, kunde Karenhitta många intressanta fakta. Hon upptäckte till exempel att närbelägna loger hade tidigt kontakt medFrejalogen och formade ett gemenskapsnätverk. Hon spårade vissa fall där medlemmar som blivit sjukafick sjukpenning. Hon märkte också hur svenska språket överlevde protokollskrivandet när engelskan blevdet officiella språket på 1940- talet.

Karens forskning på arkivet bevisar hur värdefulla logens gamla papper kan vara. Frejalogen kommeratt få mycket information över sin historia när de har sitt jubileum i September. Vi gratulerar Frejalogen påsitt hundraårsjubileum och välkomnar andra Vasa medlemmar att forska sin loge-historia här på arkivet.

Submitted by: Lars Jenner

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GM Message

Letter From The Editor (SWE and ENG) to come

Box for Deadlines

Archives NewsArchives News

Swedish Language Lessons

DL NewsDL New Jersay #6DL Lake Michigan #8DL Arizona #21Lodge NewsThule Lodge #127North Star Lodge #145Tegnér Lodge #149Linné Lodge #153Tegnér Lodge #224Svea Lodge #253Svea Lodge #294Svea Lodge #348Linde Lodge #492Phoenix Lodge #677Desert Viking Lodge 682Norden Lodge 684Vinland of Cape Cod Lodge #703Nordic Lodge #708Solstad Lodge #709Stenland Lodge #727Birka Lodge #732

Swedish NewsLogen Christian Nr 617Logen Eskilstuna Nr 633Logen Höganäs Nr 634Logen Bråviken Nr 751Logen Vadstena Nr 762En resa bland Vasavänner

Youth NewsSjölunden Winners

CultureAllemansrätten-Right of Public Access (SWE and

ENG)Nobel Monitor Ericksson

HappeningsSwedish Language ClassTo Whom It Might Concern

Thank YouGrand Lodge Elderhostel

Karen Snowberg

As we are writing this, July is here already, where has the summer gone? Summer means many outdoor activities. However therewill be times when you will sit and enjoy the nature around you, either by yourself or with family and friends. This will be yourchance to really look at things around you. Since you are willing to learn Swedish we will devote this lesson listing things you maysee from your lawn chair or front porch in the language of your forefathers.

Just a reminder that we are listing these words using these forms:

tree the tree trees

You will know if a word is common or neuter by using – en for the common form and –et for the neuter form.

träd, -et, --- tree solstol, -en, -ar lawn chairlöv, -et, --- leaf balkong, -en, -er balconygran, -en, -ar fir, spruce garage, -t, --- garagebarr, -et, --- pine needle utegrill, -en, -ar barbecuebuske, -n, -ar bush gunga, -n, -or swinggren, -en, -ar branch gungbräda, -n, -or seesawkvist, -en, -ar twig gungstol, -en, -ar rocking chairgräs grass sandlåda, -n, -or sandboxgräsmatta, -n, gräsmattor lawn kopp, -en, -ar cupgräsklippare, -n, --- lawnmower tillbringare, -n, --- pitcherstaket, -et, -en fence glas, -et, --- glassgrind, -en, -ar gate duk, -en, -ar tableclothträdgård, -en, -ar garden servett, -en, -er napkinblomma, -n, blommor flower tallrik, -en, -ar plateköksträdgård vegetable garden gaffel, -n, gafflar fork tomat, -en, -er tomato kniv, -en, -ar knifepotatis, -en, -ar potato sked, -en, -ar spoongurka, -n, gurkor cucumber stol, -en, -ar chairmorot, -en, morötter carrot bord, -et, --- tablesallad lettuce parasoll, -en, -er garden umbrella rädisa, -n, rädisor radish bok, -en, böcker bookmajs, -en, --- corn spel, -et, --- gamesparris, -en, --- asparagus gäst, -en, -er guestbrytböna, -n, brytbönor green beans vän, -nen, -ner friendärta, -n, ärtor peas välkommen welcome

How about that!!!

We think you will be able to make some interesting sentences out of these words. Or at least you can learn the words and connectthem to things you see outside your home. If you are entertaining your Swedish friends you can have a contest. Give your guests apen and paper and ask them to write down in Swedish the things they see. Perhaps a prize could be awarded to the winner.Learning should always be fun and this would be one way. Good Luck!


Swedish Language Lessonsby Lillemor and Richard Horngren

LEARNING SWEDISH – LESSON 13


DL NEWSDistrict Master Eric Johansson opened

the 101st Convention of NJ District #6 at9:05 a.m. on Saturday, May 4, 2008, atthe Grand Hotel in beautiful Cape May,NJ.

Grand Lodge Officers and PDMs wereintroduced by PDM Palmer Hval. GrandLodge Officers in attendance were: GrandMaster, Rolf Bergman, and wife Marty;Vice Grand Master, William Lundquist,and wife Sheila, Vice District MasterDistrict Michigan #8; Grand LodgeTreasurer, Richard Overberg, and wifeDorothy; Grand Lodge Executive BoardMember, Eastern Region, Pamela Genelli,and husband Jim; Grand Lodge DeputyDistrict #6, John Larsson, PDM and wifeDebbie; Grand Lodge Cultural Director-USA and Canada, Inger Hanright andhusband Jack; and Grand LodgeWebmaster, Robert Anderson, PDM, andwife Carol.

Other Districts represented were:District Lodge PA #9, District Master,Linda Smith, and husband Dale.

NJ District #6 PDMs in attendancewere: 1973 A. Leslie Swenson; 1982Harry Sterner; 1984 Robert Anderson;1985 Arthur Haumacher; 1989 ErrolErnstrom, 1990; Kenneth Saam, 1991;Paul Thenstedt, 1993; John Radel, 1994;Jerry Meloskie, 1996; Ingrid Casella,1997; Howard Corneilson, 1998; HelenHaumacher, 2000; John Larsson; 2001Richard Apgar, Jr.; 2002 David Carlson;2003 Walter Emihl; 2004 Susan Knutson;2005 Palmer Hval; and 2006 ArthurBjorkner.

All District Officers were in atten-dance.

Installation of new Delegates was con-ducted.

The Delegation consisted of 32Delegates, 21 District Officers, 18 PDMs,and 2 Emeritus members, making a totalof 73 votes.

Helen Haumacher, Past Grand LodgeDeputy and PDM served as Parlia-mentarian. Appointed Tellers wereKenneth Saam, Harry Sterner, and A.Leslie Swenson. Carol Boyle served asCorrespondent to the Vasa Home Familyand Vasa Star.

The minutes of the 100th Conventionwere approved as corrected. It was sug-gested that, in future, corrected minutesbe distributed as “Corrected Minutes” to

Lodges instead of noting corrections incurrent Convention year minutes.

District Master Eric Johansson openeda discussion about submission of candi-dates’ names for the Board of Trustees,NJ Vasa Park. The Dele-gation voted towaive the Bylaws dead-line for the 2008Convention and additional nominationswere accepted from the floor. The follow-ing were elected to 3-year terms asTrustees of NJ Vasa Park: Carol Boyle-Linne #429, Chad Peterson-Draken #731,Thomas Blake-Arlington #62, MarkArmstrong-Arlington #62, and HarrySwanson-Arlington #62. DM EricJohansson congratulated the Dele-gationfor their concern for the good of NJ VasaPark by allowing the election of the Boardof Trustees to move forward.

Jerry Meloskie was elected as Editorand David Carlson as Treasurer for the NJVasa Home Family, each for a 1-yearterm.

The District Master’s report was readand accepted. DM Eric Johansson, beingsingle, extended his heartfelt thanks to theladies who supported him throughout theyear.

PDM Walter Emihl conducted theExecutive Board Minutes review andposed questions, which were satisfactorilyanswered. Executive Board member FredSignor conducted the Vasa Park TrusteesMinutes Review. Board President, ArthurBjorkner, with assistance from BoardAsst. Treasurer, Kevin DeFeo, answeredall questions satisfactorily.

All other Annual Reports werereviewed. The District #6 newspaper, NJVasa Home Family, is investigating waysto increase revenue and cut spiralingcosts, perhaps by hiring an Advertising

Manager and renewing the “Booster” pro-gram. It was suggested that a method toinclude “home-schooled” students in theNJ District #6 Scholarship Program beaddressed. The Membership Committeehas been very active this past year at thebehest of our District Master, and isexploring “out-of-the-box” ways to attractnew members to the Order. IRS require-ments as mentioned in the Vasa Star werenoted. Our Webmaster stressed the impor-tance for Local Lodge Websites to be keptcurrent. All reports were accepted.

During the break Delegates enjoyedthe opportunity to visit with Vasa friendsand family over a tasty Mexican-style lun-cheon buffet.

The Convention reconvened at 2 p.m.Credentials were reviewed and attendancewas taken. Draken #731 AlternateCandace Peterson replaced DelegateCathy Peterson.

Unfinished Business was discussed.A Pool Committee has been formed tooversee and conduct fundraising. TheVasa Park pool is being repaired andmanagerial staff is in place. If all goesaccording to plan, the pool will be openfor abbreviated daily hours from July 4through August 24.

The NJ Vasa Home Bylaws wereapproved as presented and corrected.Board of Trustees President ArthurBjorkner congratulated the BylawsCommittee for a job well done.

New Business was addressed. TheDistrict Master’s recommendation that theposition of District Historian be a 1-yearterm was defeated, and the recommenda-tion to hold a minimum of one member-ship seminar per year was approved.

DL New Jersey #6

Continued on next page

Elected District Officers for the 2008-2009 term.


The Delegation voted to raise the PerCapita Assessment by $3.00 for the pur-pose of additional funding of the NJ VasaHome Family effective January 2009. Adadditional vote approved a transfer of$5,000.00 from the District Organiza-tional Fund as a donation to NJ VasaHome Family to enable publication of thisvital information source to continue.

A motion was made and passed to puta hold on the Grand Hotel for 2010.

Several presentations were made.PDM Palmer Hval read a Resolutionbestowing District Honorary LifeMembership to Eric Johansson who satis-factorily completed his term as DistrictMaster. PDM Arthur Haumacher pro-posed a Resolution of Honorary LifeMembership bestowing voice and vote onTerry O. Meloskie who has completed 11years as District Historian. BothResolutions were approved.

Donations presented included: $1,000to the Pool Fund from Jean ErikssonWidman and the Walter ErikssonMemorial Fund conveyed by JerryMeloskie; $6,000 donation to the PoolFund from Arthur Haumacher andFamily; $1,900 from the Barn Dance tothe Vasa Park Board of Trustees fromLou Casella, who extended thanks to allof his helpers at 1st Viking fundraisersover the years; and $2,200 to the District#6 Scholarship Fund from Lodge Linne#429’s Import Sale conveyed byChairman Larry Pedersen.

GL Executive Board Member PamelaGenelli thanked District #6 for invitingher to the Convention, and reflected onwhy GL Officer attends: Vasa membersare their extended family, and they comeaway with new, sometimes unexpectedideas. She also brought greetings from GLDeputy Ivar Anderson and wife Lindawho were unable to attend this year.

The Saturday evening banquet beganwith a wonderful cocktail party whichwas followed by a delicious meal. Formaldress and native costumes added to thefestive atmosphere. DM Eric Johanssonwas presented with the PDM Jewel by GLDeputy John Larsson who then askedGrand Master Rolf Bergman to pin it onEric. Vasastjarnen Junior Club gave alively performance, and later presented adonation to the Vasa Park Board ofTrustees for the free use of Viking Hallfor their practice sessions.

Our Sunday morning began with aWorship and Memorial Service lead byDistrict Chaplain Jeanette Baker and

DL New Jersey #6Continued from previous page


District Cultural Leader CarolMcDermott. The Vasa Choir, accompa-nied by District Master Eric Johanssonand Sister Jeanette, offered several beauti-ful anthems to enhance the service.

When Convention reconvened onSunday, election of District Officers washeld. Elected were: District Master -William “BJ” Peterson, Draken #731;Vice District Master - Deborah Larsson,Lyckan #507; District Secretary - CarolAnderson, Frithiof #63; Asst. DistrictSecretary - Delores Christenson, Frithiof#63; District Treasurer - Kevin DeFeo,Tryggve #88, District Executive Board:Jack Hanright, Frithiof #63, RandyPierson, Gothiod #486, and Fred Signor,Sveaborg #446; District Trustee - HelenSmith, Baltic-Framat #360; DistrictAuditors - Inger Hanright, Frithiof #63 (3-year term) and Mark Bernabei, Gothiod#486 (2-year term); District Chaplain -Jeanette Baker, Three Crowns #704;District Cultural Leader - CarolMcDermott, Viking #735, District Masterof Ceremonies - Ken Christenson, Frithiof#63; Asst. Master of Ceremonies - ChadPeterson, Draken #731; District InnerGuard - Leonard Kudlack, Tryggve #88;District Outer Guard - Edwin O. Peterson,Dalahäst #742.

GM Rolf Bergman offered congratula-tions to the new officers and thanks tothose completing their service, especiallyour outgoing BUSY DM, Eric Johansson,who lent his musical talents toVasastjarnen dancers at the banquet andthe earlier Worship Service. He and wife,Marty, were pleased to join District #6again, and invited us to the Grand LodgeConvention in Washington, DC, in 2010.He offered one note of constructive criti-cism: “Please use correct Swedishspelling and pronunciation of Lodgenames.”

GL Treasurer Richard Overbergthanked District #6 for inviting him andwife, Dorothy, who was selling “Nordic”sweatshirts and Dala Horse pins asfundraisers for the Grand LodgeConvention. He expressed thanks to thoseinvolved in the morning’s WorshipService. He offered thanks to EricJohansson for a job well done, and wishedgood luck to “BJ” for the upcoming year.He admonished the new Delegates to“stay active,” and repeated the call torecruit new members into the Order.Finally, he encouraged members ofDistrict #6 to attend the Grand LodgeConvention to support our VasastjärnanJunior Dance Club which will be invitedto perform. He reminded us we need toelect a Grand Lodge Deputy in 2009.

District Master, Linda Smith, DistrictLodge Pennsylvania #9, thanked us forthe hospitality extended to her and hus-band, Dale. Their District will host theGrand Lodge Convention in 2010 andtheir own District Convention September2008 both in Washington, DC. An invita-tion was extended to NJ District #6 mem-bers.

Cherstin Peterson, Dalahäst #742, gavean update on the health of PDM RoyLindquist and his wife. PDM PalmerHval, Viking #735, gave an update on thehealth of PDM George Nord and his wife,Marge.

DM Eric Johansson declared theSunday afternoon session an OpenMeeting. He expressed his great thanks toall Officers and Lodges for their supportthroughout his term. It has been a pleasur-able, fun, and hopefully productive year.He thanked the Delegation for the Honorof being chosen to serve as our DistrictMaster.

New Delegates were presented withDistrict Lodge membership pins.

GLD John Larsson lead the installationteam: Arthur Haumacher as GL Master ofCeremonies; Jerry Meloskie as GLSecretary; Palmer Hval as GL Guard;Walter Emihl as Vice Grand Master andGL Chaplain; and Arthur Bjorkner as GLTreasurer and Trustee. Flag bearers wereJeremy Peterson (USA) and BrittanyOfferding (Sweden).

GL Deputy John Larsson invested EricJohansson with the emblem of PastDistrict Master. All new District Officerswere installed.

Announcements of upcoming eventswere made for the Good of the Order.Most importantly, Lodge Draken #731’sSend Off for DM “BJ” Peterson will beon May 18 in Viking Hall at Vasa Park.All are invited.

DM “BJ” Peterson, dressed in a tradi-tional Swedish costume, was escorted tothe altar, at which time a number of giftswere presented to him by his family andVasa friends. Most notably a gavel in theshape of a Wide Mouth Bass was present-ed by his daughter and Chairperson ofDraken #731 Candace Peterson. “BJ”expressed thanks to GLD John Larssonand his team for a fine installation. Heexclaimed, “Wow! Who would havethought I would be standing up here?” Hethanked his family for their complete sup-port, especially wife Cathy. Flowerarrangements were presented to MarieDemboski and Marge Pierson in apprecia-tion of their hands-on support over thepast year. He also thanked Inger Hanright


LODGE NEWS

DL New Jersey #6Continued from previous page

for making his Swedish costume. Heappointed Carol Hendrickson as DistrictPhotographer. Finally, DM “BJ” statedthat his theme for the coming year will be“Tradition” and the return of some VasaPark events remembered from his youth.

An invitation was extended to all toattend an informal reception for the newOfficers following close of Convention.The Convention closed at 3:05 pm.

Submitted by: Jerry Meloskie

Pictured is Howard E. Weaver in an“Immigrant” costume, having just landedat Ellis Island. This was part of LakeMichigan District #8’s CentennialCelebration Convention at Frankenmuth,MI, May 16-18, sponsored by VikingLodge #730, Flint, MI.

A highlight of the convention wasDistrict Historian Iva Linn and DistrictCultural Leader Vera Littlejohn’sexhibits of Scandinavian immigrant’shardships coming to America via EllisIsland, and reenactment complete with“passports, boarding passes, healthinspections, etc.”

Our lodge members were delighted tosee Sheila Lundquist installed as DistrictMaster. Her husband, Bill, is Vice GrandMaster of the Vasa Order of America.

Our Fish Boil will be at Holy SpiritLutheran Church, Fenton Rd., Flint, MI,on September 14 at 4:00 p.m.

Submitted by: Howard E. Weaver

DL Lake Michigan #8

DL Arizona #21

Howard E. Weaver

The 15th Biennial Convention washeld April 4-5-6, 2008 at Dobson RanchInn in Mesa, AZ. The host lodge wasPhoenix Lodge #677.

The flag ceremony started with JuniorGirl Scouts Troop 2139 carrying in theflag of our Scandinavian countries.District Master Vito Panteleo called themeeting to order. Dignitaries werebrought to the altar and introduced. VGMWilliam Lundquist and GLEBM ToreKellgren were among those present. Thebusiness meeting successfully ended inthe afternoon with new and returningboard members.

DM Vito Panteleo VDM Maureen Anderson DS Pat FlippenADS Jenny Rudberg DT Robert Anderson DH Kristin BoyesDCL Debbie Helmer DMC Louise Pantaleo EBM Loretta Olson LL 691EBM Anne Levig LL 709 DC Joan Swenson-HitzDT1 Loretta Olson DT2Gisela Liden DT3 Sam LidenDA1 Emmet Anderson DA2 Anne Levig DA3 Charles ElstonDIG Tom Levig DOG Ruth Gregory ADMC Ann-Marie Kinnison

Saturday evening was dinner, raffles and dancing to the music of Sylvia andFjordsong. The scholarship winner was announced and Roxanne Ross accepted heraward.

Sunday concluded with breakfast and an outdoor memorial service. DCL DebbieHelmer presented a roundtable discussion.

Submitted by: Kristin Boyes, District Historian

Vice Grand Master William Lundquist andDistrict 21 Master Vito Pantaleo.

Hello from the Thule Lodge #127 inJamestown/Bemus Point, NY. Ourweather conditions in late spring havebrought frost two times in late May. Thisis the time of the year when we go fromusing the furnace to the air conditioner inthe same day! However, Thule Lodgebegan its busy season with many activi-ties.

The Friday night dinners began for theseason, along with a pancake breakfast,and our famous Swedish meatball dinnerin May. At lodge meetings, we held the“egg sexa” luncheon with a variety offoods. This was served by the executivecommittee. Cultural leader FanchonFuller always has a Swedish moment toshare with others about holidays andevents happening in Sweden, along withkeeping members informed about futureevents. Substitute cultural leader Allie

Nelson Withers presented the special pro-gram for Mother’s Day showing a varietyof family photographs and talking abouttheir journey from Sweden. At the samemeeting, Dan Larson showed his Swedishfamily photograph album made into acalendar. Walpurgis Night was recog-nized at the end of April. In May, theannual Memorial service was conductedby the Degree Team, remembering themembers who had passed away in the lastyear. During the spring and summermonths, the monthly meetings are heldon the fourth Thursday evening of eachmonth.

Lodge chairman Eugene Johnson wel-comes all to upcoming lodge events.These events include the Father’s DayHerring Breakfast, the June Smorgasborddinner, the herring breakfast and theSwiss steak dinner. The annualScandinavian Folk Festival will be heldin Jamestown on July 18-20, and Thule

Thule Lodge #127Jamestown/Bemus Point, NY



Lodge will be serving one of their famousSwedish meatball dinners. TheScandinavian festival is always wellattended and preserves the Swedishheritage.

As Thule Lodge continues well into its101st year, we look forward to visitorsand if you are in our area, we welcomeyou. “God dag” to all!

Submitted by: John Sipos

North Star Lodge #145Spokane, WA

Thule Lodge #127Continued from previous page

Shown in the middle of the photograph is long-time member Allie Nelson Withers. With her isher brother Nels John Nelson, who also serves as lodge trustee, and sister-in-law AlbertaNelson, who also serves as lodge treasurer. At this event, Mrs. Withers showed some of hermany Swedish items she has received from Sweden over the many years. Nels and Allie arrivedin the United States more than 80 years ago with their family.

North Star Lodge #145, Spokane, WA,is the oldest Vasa Lodge in the PacificNorthwest. On April 26, 2008, they cele-brated their 100th Anniversary with a

catered luncheon and program at The Sonsof Norway Hall.

The lodge had displays of pictures from1908 to 2008. These showed our early and

current Vasa families and their manyactivities, annual picnics, dance groups,choral, “Midsommar” Festivities, SantaLucia pageants, tours in theNorthwest, Minot, ND, and Big Trees inMontana. A huge Scandinavian mapdepicted the genealogical roots of ourmembers and families. Additional displaytables held many Swedish family heir-looms, books, and souvenirs. It was a veryimpressive occasion.

Chairman, Steve Matthews, had lost hisvoice so Daga-Karin Lindquist, a newly-transferred member from Golden Valley#616, in California and Past Master ofPacific Southwest District #15, took overas MC. Her Swedish accent added glam-our to the event while her dancing skillshelped to lead some Swedish dances.

Our own Lundin Family entertainedwith violin, accordion, piano, guitar andother instruments. They are the sons andgrandchildren of charter member FredLundin, and have brought musical enjoy-ment to our lodge for 100 years.

The District #13 Lodge Spring BoardMeeting was also held that same morningat Riverview Retirement Center.Afterwards, Alice Iverson, District #13Master PNW and her Executive Boardmembers and guests from Oregon,Washington, and Montana joined our cele-bration. They brought us their lodge’s con-gratulations and presented gifts to ourSpokane lodge. A plaque was alsoreceived from the Grand Master, RolfBergman and his wife, bringing us theircongratulations and best wishes on our100th Anniversary.

Longevity jewels were given to threeVasa members: Fern Hultman for 75 yearsand Betty Ann Hunter and Marian Murrayeach for 60 years. One other member,Rodger Olin, had received his 70-yearjewel in 2007. We do keep our members.

Individual and group pictures weretaken throughout the day. Awards weregiven to our six active Past Chairman, asfollows: Steve Matthews 2006 to present;Florence Loreen 1994-96; GladysTellessen 2000-01; Ralph Oscarson 2002-03; Art Oquist 2005; and TressiaAnderson 1997-98 and 2004.

The hall was decorated in blue and yel-low with centerpieces of flowers. Our 93guests were served herring, cheese tray,bread and crackers, Baked salmon or fruitstuffed pork loin, boiled potatoes, creamedspinach, carrots, lingonberries, salmonmousse, and pickled cucumber salad. Thetraditional Princess Cake was served fordessert.

Submitted by: Etta Tiederman

Fem Hultman, Betty Ann Hunter and Marian Murray.


At its April meeting, Tegnér Lodge#149, Oakland, CA, enjoyed a pastaentree prepared by the Nordendahls.Other Italian dishes rounded out the meal.At our business meeting plans for ouranniversary dinner in the fall and resolu-tions of the district convention the end ofApril were discussed. Cultural leaderLaura Nordendahl told us more about thehistory of our lodge.

At the May meeting, our Swedishchief Stig Björk prepared a delicioussalmon entree. We were pleased to haveour 99-year-old 51-year member, RubyNichelini, present to celebrate her birth-day with us and with May birthday mem-ber, Diane Eatherly. Three princess birth-day cakes were cut and served. After thebirthday songs were sung, the Tegnérsingers led us in a sing-a-long of severalold favorites. Ruby was presented the 50-year membership jewel from national byChairman Marie Anne Hill. Three guestswere present: Nani Lofstrom of FramåtLodge and René Morton and her daugh-ter, Kristi, friends of member RhodaGilbertson. During our cultural program,we talked about our memories of formermembers who are no longer with us.

Delegates Laura Nordendahl and AnnTennis and alternate, Marie Anne Hill,gave reports about the district conventionin Redding. Marie Anne and Ann wereboth lucky winners of gift baskets raffledduring the convention’s Saturday nightbanquet. All three members thoughtSkogen Lodge conducted a very success-ful and enjoyable convention.

Submitted by: Ann Tennis

Due to blizzard conditions in January,the meeting was cancelled, so weinstalled our officers in February. BruceSwanson, a third generation member, wasinstalled as President and his motherinstalled as Vice President. During Marchwe made lots of meatballs, various kindsof cookies and breads for theInternational Day Food Fair that is heldevery year at the University of Montana.Foreign students attending the universitycreate specialties from their own coun-tries to sell. Our lodge has been asked toparticipate in this event for many years.This helps us to pay for our scholarshipsthat we give out every spring. One $500scholarship goes to a senior student of aVasa member and the other one goes to asenior student from one of the seven highschools around the Missoula area. Wealso donate to the annual “All NightSenior Party,” a party for all graduateswhich has continued for over 20 years. InMay, we had an Egyptian dinner, alongwith slides and videos that were taken byJodi and Leroy Anderson on their trip toEgypt. June was our annual Midsummercelebration at the Otto Benson farm,which will be 110 years old this year, anevent that everyone looks forward toattending.

Submitted by: Rick Swanson

Members of Svea Lodge #253 havehad a good spring enjoying many inter-esting and fun cultural programs spear-headed by our Cultural Leader, Iva Lynn.In March we had a re-enactment ofScandinavian Immigrants landing at EllisIslands. All our members were encour-aged to dress in costume of their ances-tors and went through the check-inprocess of Ellis Island.

April brought an interesting presenta-tion by Wesley Hanson teaching us aboutthe Swenson Granite Company ofConcord, NH, which was founded in1880. In May we had an overview ofIceland and Greenland presented bymembers, Ed and Joelle Hultgren, IvaLynn, and Susan Swanson.

April 12th we celebrated our 95thAnniversary, with a special dinner, silentauction, raffle, and a delightful singingprogram by classically trained soprano,Ann Margaret Lewis. Mrs. Lewis sangprofessionally in the New York City areafor 15 years before she moved toIndianapolis. She sang several songs inSwedish and English including “VemKan Segla Förutan Vind,” and “O StoreGud”- How Great Thou Art.

Submitted by: Michelle Escalante

Tegnér Lodge #149Oakland, CA

Tegnér Lodge #224Missoula, MT

Svea Lodge #253Indianapolis, IN

Linné Lodge #153South Bend, IN

At our April 6, 2008, meeting, Thelma Nelsonreceived her 55-year pin and Helge Swansonreceived his 60-year pin for membership yearsin Vasa.

Submitted by: Lorraine Cooper

Left to right: Bruce Swanson and Pat Swanson.

From far left to right: Bruce Swanson, AliceComstock, Erling Gustafson, Cy Lindstead,John Swanson, Pat Swanson, and BettyGustafson at the International Food Fair.

Ann Margeret Lewis


We have remained active through thevery bad weather – only once was ameeting cancelled, on a Sunday, whenchurch services also were not held.

There was an interesting excursion tothe Maritime Museum which houses suchexcellent naval exhibits and is the“home” of our Flagship Niagara from theBattle of Lake Erie.

Locally our Mercyhurst College pro-vides dinners for the public as a require-ment of the Restaurant Management pro-gram. They are the responsibility of indi-vidual students who choose ethnic meals.Some of us attended the SwedishMidsommar event, and our host, namedLeif, was a young man from Visby,Sweden, who was very grateful to be ableto speak to us in his native tongue. We alltried to dress with somethingScandinavian.

Another activity is attending weeklySwedish lessons taught by one of ourmembers – Lisa Owen – students meet inthe homes of class members everyTuesday.

Many of us also enjoy our monthlybreakfasts at a local restaurant. Usuallyabout 25 (who are retired or not currentlyemployed) can attend.

Rosemaling painting, taught by talent-ed member Berit Benacci, provided uswith lovely “over the doorway” woodplaques.

As the summer nears we are makingplans for our annual banquet. Also impor-tant is Midsommar at our local amuse-ment park. We will set up our maypolefor dances, and enjoy food and fun allday!

Our lodge celebrated our 94th anniver-sary at the Bel-Aire Hotel. We had alovely dinner, Chinese auction, and wereentertained by the local Erie Playhouse“Show Stoppers,” a very talented groupof students, aged 10 to 15. They sang anddanced to the musicals of Broadway – avery high-energy group.

Submitted by: Linda Collin

Svea Lodge #296Erie, PA

Linde Lodge #492Milwaukee, WI

Phoenix Lodge #677Phoenix, AZ

With a long, snowy and cold winter inWisconsin, we were struggling with sun-shine stories. Of course they were there,but the 100 plus inches of snow made ithard to find.

Linde had its usual fundraisers in thespring: the Pea Soup and PancakeDinner in March, and the ScandinavianFestival in May.

The pea soup dinner was a lot of workfor a small profit (I’m sure everyone isaware of the high grocery prices today),

Phoenix Lodge #677 hosted the 15thbiennial convention of District #21 onApril 4-6, 2008, at the Dobson RanchBest Western Inn, Mesa, AZ. We werehonored to have three Grand LodgeOfficers and spouses attending plus 6Officers from District #15, as well asmany Officers and members from ourfive lodges. The convention began Fridayevening in our hospitality room andended with a Memorial Service onSunday morning, remembering 20 of ourmembers who died since the last conven-tion. In between were the business meet-ings where new Officers were elected andinstalled. And the Saturday night ban-quet, attended by 84 members. TheDistrict Scholarship was awarded toRoxanne Ross, followed by dancing towaltz, polka and shottis music. The FlagCeremony opening the business meetingsSaturday morning was impressive. TheSwedish flag led the procession carriedby our own Katarina Ivarsson wearingher Swedish costume. Following her, car-rying the other flags, was Barbara andLeo Langland’s granddaughter’s JuniorGirl Scout Troop.

On April 19th we celebrated our 44thAnniversary with a brunch prepared bySara Nilsson and Carol Blackwell. TheCharter was draped in memory of HarryLavine and Hilding Westberg. For theprogram some members brought itemsfor “show and tell” that had been broughtover from Sweden by parents or grand-parents. Also on display were items, andan explanation, from the touringImmigrant Trunk.

Submitted by: Elna Lidman

Merryhurst College Swedish midsummer din-ner: Lisa Owen, Mary Kolb and student hostLeif Pagani.

Lisa Owen and Kay Lynne Picheco won floralprizes.

while the Scandinavian Festival was lesswork and a huge profit. Both, however,are important.

Valborg was held at Ray Shoberg’splace, and thanks to his foresight ofarranging for indoor eating – his mechan-ical shop - and lots of hot coffee, we hada great time. The winds were dangerouslyhigh that day, so the bon fire had to waituntil next year.

We had good friends/dual membersfrom Sweden’s Mälardrottningen(Sjöberg’s) and Enköping Lodge(Agge/Axelsson) visit us and the DistrictConvention in May. Now we are lookingforward to “Midsommar” in June and“Kräftskiva” in August. Maybe it’ll warmup by then.Submitted by: Liza Ekstrand, Secretary

Rolf Ekstrand “The Swedish Chef” in chargeof the pancakes and meatballs atScandinavian Festival.


Desert VikingLodge #682Cathedral City, CA

Norden Lodge #684Fresno, CA

Vinland of CapeCod #703Cape Cod, MA

What do you get when you load 30Vasa members and guests into a hugebright red bus and send them to one ofthe most renowned National Parks inSouthern California to search for wild-flowers and scenic discoveries? Well, forDesert Viking Lodge # 682, the outcomewas a great day of sightseeing, singingand quite a number of professional quali-ty photographs for the club’s photo con-test at the next meeting.

The club’s outing on March 29th

proved to be a wonderful way to enjoynature and explore our nearby JoshuaTree National Park, which has long beenknown for its majestic monolithicallystone formations, great climbing opportu-nities and uniquely formed Joshua Trees,some of which are estimated to be up to900 years old. The 550,000 acre park wasalso filled with tiny bursts of beauty fromyellow, white, violet and pink flowersdue to recent rains. As our bus wound itsway through the park from the Mojavehighlands in the West to the more aridColorado Desert and Pinto Basin thereseemed to be something wonderful to seein every direction, so several stops weremade to take pictures and stroll around.

At noon, a picnic of sliced, roastedchicken and homemade potato and greensalads made by Viola Wyler and a dessertof delightful chocolate chip cookies madeby Tanya Woods, kept our travelingVikings in good spirits.

Along with the sightseeing, off-keysinging and camaraderie fun that was hadby lodge members, several facts werealso learned about The Joshua TreeNational Park. We learned that it liesastride the Pacific flyway of migratorybirds and acts as a secure rest stop formany of them. There is also a fragile bal-ance of life in this ecosystem thatdepends on each species to help in thesurvival of another, from the jack rabbit,to coyote and the desert tortoise, even thebeetles and moths that help pollinate theshrubs, there is a chain linking themtogether that we must appreciate andunderstand.

I think all our venturing membersgained a greater impression of the need tosupport our national parks and wild landsand had a general wish to get out intonature whenever possible in the future.

Oh, and there was one other importantlesson learned by an enthusiastic photo-

grapher during the trip; when exploringthe abundance of beauty that the highdesert has to offer, and particularly if youwant to take a picture of a backlit Chollacactus, try not to bend over in the middle

of the garden, otherwise memories mightnot be the only thing you take home.”Bottoms up, Donna!

Submitted by: Beatrice Wyler

Hello again from Norden Lodge inFresno, cannot believe a whole year hascome and gone since we had our veryfamous “Valborgsmässoafton” last year.The Swedish tradition on this particularday is to have a bon-fire (big one) and asthe picture shows, our Vice ChairmanMike Peterson is preparing ours (small)but it all gives us a flair how the Swedesdo it.

The May meeting is always popular,everybody enjoys going to theJohanssons’ in the Sierra foothills, eatingand visiting and listening to accordionplayers entertain us with a good oldSwedish sing-a-long.

Another treat was to hear JamesJohansson (86 years old) singing“Flickan fran Backafall” - he knows thewhole song by heart and has a very nicevoice to go with it.

At our June meeting Anders Lindhetaught us a little about Carl von Linne,Sweden’s botanist born 300 years agolast year. I remember myself in school inSweden when we all had to learn theLatin names of flowers and we wereusually pretty good!

Submitted by: Inger Lindhe

April l9th was a great day for mem-bers of Vinland Lodge, on that date eightnew members were initiated and enthusi-astically welcomed by Chairman JudithPeterson, officers, and members of ourlodge. This was Judith’s maiden voyageinto the initiation ceremony which wasflawlessly conducted.

Our new members are BarbaraCormier and her sister Sophia Lombard,Trapin Hughes, Wallace and BettyLornel, Eivind and Marilyn Sohøel andtheir daughter, Deborah Sohøel-Coldberg. Although not initiated into theLodge, Deborah’s young daughter,Grace, has become the official raffle-tick-et “puller-outer” and calls out the num-bers with great aplomb. She also is theone who took the picture of the accompa-nying photograph for this article. Thankyou for your good work, Grace. You’re abig help to Vinland Lodge.

Our May meeting was followed by anethnic supper that had been suggested byour Financial Secretary, Enid Makris.What a big success that was! Typicalmeals from about fifteen different coun-tries were on the table: Swedish, Italian,French, Greek, Czech, Canadian, Danish,Icelandic, and Norwegian. You name it--it was there, and although most of thewomen held back after one refill, Inoticed the male members were goingaround the table like whirling dervishes;they just didn’t stop. It spoke well of thedistaff’s talents in culinary arts. One out-standing fish dish was prepared by JohanChristiansen who, prior to retirement,

Vice Chairman Mike Peterson. Continued on next page


Nordic Lodge #708Atlanta, GA

Solstad Lodge #709Sun City West, AZ

Vasa Hike on the Appalachian Trail near Hiawassee Ga. On April 12, 2008, a beau-tifully clear spring day in N. Georgia, a group of 13 Nordic Lodge members traveledto Hiawassee GA and enjoyed a short walk north of Duke’s Creek Gap on theAppalachian Trail. We walked over ridges where spring was about to show itself. Thetemperature hovered around 60 degrees with intermittent sun. After the walk, weenjoyed a great lunch at Pia Johansson’s Clydesdale Horse Farm. Pia breedsClydesdale horses and has chickens, goats, cats and dogs. Thank you Pia for hostingus and for a great time.

Submitted by: Dale P. Nordin

excelled as a cook in the merchantmarine. We sure are lucky to have you asa member, Johan.

Our best wishes to all of you from

Cape Cod. We hope you’re all enjoying ahappy, fun-filled summer.

Submitted by: Marion S. BorgmanPicture by: Debbie Sohøel-Goldberg

Vito Pantaleo, District Master ofArizona District #21, installed the newofficers of Solstad Lodge #709 on March13 at the Briarwood Country Club in SunCity West, AZ. Grand Lodge DeputyGisela Lidén was also present to assistwith the ceremony.

Solstad Lodge has had an interestingvariety of programs during the 2007-2008 season. October’s meeting featuredthe sharing of summer experiences, espe-cially focusing on those who had visitedNordic countries during the summer. Atasty luncheon of open-faced sandwichesand salads followed. In November,Cultural Leader Gunilla Hill presented“Famous Swedes.” A Lucia celebrationand “smörgåsbord” was the highlight onDecember 13.

In January, Anne Levig gave a slidepresentation on “The World of AstridLingren.” “Swedish Lenten Customs”was the topic for February, along with aPea Soup and Pancake Luncheon. Anearly Midsummer Celebration plannedfor the April meeting.

Submitted by: Thomas Levig

Vinland of Cape Cod #703Continued from previous page

New members: Back row: Debbie Sohøel-Goldberg, Eivind Sohøel, Trapin Hughes, MarilynSohøel. Front row: Sophia Lombard, Barbara Cormier, and Wallace and Betty Lornell.

The Hikers, L-R: Margaret Breuer, Connie Ericsson, Monica Eklund, MargaretaHammarström, Guye Dupcak, Joe Dupcak, Björn Blombeck, Eva Meyer, Lilian Nordin, DaleNordin. Not Shown Jan Eklund.

Newly installed officers of Solstad Lodge #709are depicted with District Lodge Arizona #21District Master Vito Pantaleo (seated) andGrand Lodge Deputy Gisela Lidén (secondfrom left, standing). Officers include AllanWreigard and Margit Wreigard (seated) andstanding (l-r) Tom Levig, Irene Majava, JerryAnderson, Pat Anderson, Gunilla Hill, andAnne Levig.


Stenland Lodge #727Sparkill, NY

Birka Lodge #732Hamilton, MA

On April 13, 2008 Stenland Lodge#727, located in Rockland County, NewYork celebrated its 28th Anniversary atthe Old ’76 House Restaurant in Tappan,New York. For the past eight yearsStenland Lodge has celebrated itsAnniversary at this historic restaurant.

The Old ’76 House was built in 1668and is America’s third oldest PublicHouse. However, it has the distinction ofbeing the Hudson Valley’s oldest restau-rant. During the Revolutionary War itwas used as a meeting place for patriots,thus establishing it as a safe place forAmericans when the air was full of revo-lution. Major John Andre , theRevolutionary War’s most notorious spy,was held there for questioning.Commander-in-Chief General GeorgeWashington and other famous Generalsof the Continental Army dined in thiswonderful Public House. Visitors diningat this restaurant can view historical doc-uments, clothes from the RevolutionaryWar period, and interesting antiques. It isnot only a culinary delight to visit TheOld ’76 House but an educational one aswell.

The afternoon began with an open barand passed hors d’oeuvres. At this timewe were able to meet and talk with ourfellow Stenland members plus greet andreacquaint ourselves with visitors fromother Vasa lodges in the New York area.Dinner was served in a private roomwhere the tables were decorated with fes-tive center pieces of beautiful yellow andblue flowers arranged in baskets. TheSwedish inspired floral arrangementswere created for the occasion by Stenlandmember June Sundvik. Stenland’sAnniversary Committee consisted ofIngrid Allison, Beatrice Rasmussen andInger Terzakis.

Dinner formally began when SisterIngrid Allison read the invocation. Thiswas followed with a toast by BrotherRobert Rasmussen, Chairman of StenlandLodge and New York District #4Scholarship Chairman. Visitors were thenintroduced. Ken Olson, Chairman ofLindberg Lodge and dual member ofStenland, his wife Susan, MiriamEmerson, District Cultural Leader, EdEmerson, District Auditor, Bill Olson andMary Booton were all from LodgeLindbergh. Lodge Freja was representedby Barbara and Art Peterson, DonJacobsen and Mary Norden. Svea Lodgemembers who attended included Alice

Schmutz, District Secretary, Gail Olson,Vice District Secretary and dual memberof Stenland, Earl Kihlstrom, Chairman ofSvea and his wife Dorothy. We weredelighted to have so many Vasa digni-taries and visitors attending our anniver-sary celebration.

Thank you to all our members andguests for attending this event. Everyoneenjoyed the delicious food and good fel-lowship. Karen Snowberg, DistrictMaster, sent her best wishes since shewas unable to attend due to an importantprior commitment.

Anyone interested in learning moreabout our Lodge and its activities, pleasecontact our Chairman Robert Rasmussenat 845-359-5188.

Submitted by: Ingrid Allison

This is the Old 76 House, the oldest restau-rant in the Hudson Valley. It is currentlyundergoing some renovations.

Linnea Christianson and Ellen Sandberg.

Ingrid Allison, Ken and Susan Olson areenjoying the afternoon. Ken is Chairman ofLindbergh Lodge and a dual member ofStenland Lodge.

Bob and Beatrice Rasmussen, Bob isStenland’s Chairman and the New YorkDistrict Scholarship Chairman.

Long-time officers, LinneaChristianson, Ellen Sandberg and KarlSeaburg have retired after serving BirkaLodge #732 for a total of 25 years asFinancial and Corresponding Secretariesand Treasurer.

Linnea Christianson, a 55-year mem-ber of Vasa and Charter member of BirkaLodge #732 served as CorrespondingSecretary for 8 years. She was formerly amember of Filgi Lodge of Somerville,which later dissolved.

Linnea has served the lodge as aDistrict Auditor and served as a delegateat conventions many times. Her late hus-band, Richard, was a charter member andserved as a Guard, Trustee, and Auditor.

Ellen Sandberg joined Vasa in 1994and has been a member of Birka Lodgefor 10 years and served as FinancialSecretary for the past 7 years. Her hus-band, Ron, is also a Birka Lodge memberand has served as a Guard.

Ellen is an accomplished artist in bothoil and watercolor. She hand-makesRaggedy Ann and Andy dolls and alsocrochets afghans. She loves to read, espe-cially mystery novels by Lilian Jackson-Braum.

Karl Seaburg has been a member ofVasa and Birka Lodge since 1985 and hasserved the lodge as Treasurer for morethan 10 years, serving under differentchairmen.

Karl has been making a yearly drive toCrown Bakery in Worcester to pick upthe annual Jul Fair baked goods for thepast 20 years. He served the District as anOuter Guard. he is an active athlete goingto the GE gym almost daily. He is also anavid big band fan. His wife, Marilyn, hasbeen very active with both lodge andDistrict positions.

We will miss the expertise of Ellen,Linnea and Karl. Thank you for yourservices!

Submitted by: Lois Johnson


Logen Christian Nr 617Kristianstad

Logen EskilstunaNr 633

SWEDISH NEWS

Lördagen den 27 oktober 2007 firadeLogen Christian sina 60 år med en myck-et värdig och stämningsfull högtidsloge.120 vasasyskon samlades iFrimurarelogens lokaler vid det anrikaStora Torg i Kristianstad. Under samlin-gen visade Sy Lisa Fajersson sin vackraapplikation av Carl von Linné.

Till högtidslogen hälsade O Br GöstaLöfstedt 56 gästande syskon från niologer välkomna. Fyra nya medlemmarrecepierade i en vacker ceremoni. PS SyKristina Karlsson läste upp ett stort antaltelegram som anlänt till logen med anled-ning av jubiléet. En mycket stilfull fan-parad framfördes av bröderna ÅkeMellnert, Bengt Lindner, Conny Häll ochErik Karlsson. KP Sy Birgit Persson varprologläsare.

Under Kontakt Amerika utgick KL SyElsie Ohlsson från vårt jubileum ochberättade om en som firar 70 år. Det ärGolden Gate bron i San Francisco sominvigdes den 28 maj 1937.

LH Sy Birgitta Vallgren lämnade enkort historik över vad som hänt i logenunder 60 år. Br Gösta tackade logensavgående DD-par Br Jan-Åke Ferbornoch Sy Inga-Britt med att överlämnalogens standar, logens förtjänsttecken ochen mindre statyett av kung Christian IV.

10-årsmärke tilldelades Sy IngerCarrborg, Sy Ester Ekström, Sy EllyGranqvist samt Sy Birgitta och Br KjellErik Olsson. FDO-värdighet erhöll SyBirgitta Vallgren. Logen uppvaktadesmed penninggåvor från MSLER at LargeBr Bertil och Sy Ann-Margreth Ericson,från DL Södra Sverige Nr 20, från loger-na i DL 20 samt från Logens tidigare DDSy Winette Forssander, Br Lars Saxbo,Sy Inger Hammarlund, Br Jan-ÅkeFerborn samt Sy Greta Franzén.

Hälsningar och gratulationer fram-fördes från SM Rolf S Bergman och SLexekutiva råd, från SLD KnutRosenkvist, SLKL Gun Lith, DHLMLars Helgeson samt DM DL 19 GunnarGustavsson. O Br Gösta tackade Br BertilEricson för hjälp med den fina fanpa-raden.

Efter ljussläckningen avslutade MMBr Ronny Ragnarsson till stjärnhimlenmed pianokonsert Nr 21 ur ElviraMadigan.

Efter välkomstdrink och mingel öpp-

nades dörrarna till en vackert dukad fest-sal där stadens grundare kung Cristian IVhälsade välkommen. En utsökt måltidintogs med skål för kung Carl XVIGustav, recepienderna, Logen ChristianNr 617 och Vasa Orden av Amerika.

Recepiendernas tal hölls av RosaMathiason. Fröknegårdens Musikklassunderhöll med svenska och amerikanskasånger. Efter måltiden serverades kaffe isalongerna och dansen till Färms orkestervidtog. Det minglades och dansades ochstämningen var hög och hjärtlig. Vi somvar med kan nu se tillbaka på en mycketfin och minnesrik jubileumskväll.

Jubileumsåret avslutades traditionsen-ligt då logesyskonen samlades till kyrk-söndagen på Första advent. I år var vi iLyngsjö kyrka där adventsgudtjänstenhölls vid levande ljus. Vid efterföljandekaffe berättade Sy Gertud Rietz medhjälp av kyrkoherde Kaj Wessberg omden gamla anrika kyrkan med enkyrkklocka som skickats över frånAmerika till Lyngsjö kyrka.

Submitted by: Karin Holmkvist

Under logen Eskilstuna Nr 633:s möteden 12 april fick 50 ordensyskon frånbl a Mälardrottningen Nr 563, Stockholm589, Engelbrekt Nr 619, Enköping Nr646 och gäster glädjen att lyssna till MiaPoppe, dotter till den välkända svenskaskådespelaren Nils Poppe, sjunga ochberätta om sin far med ackompanjemangav pianist Jan Erik Sandvik.

Innan uppträdandet började, passadelogens FDO Elsa Arvidsson samtordförande Hans Lundvall att tacka fdDD för logen Eskilstuna Nr 633 JonHaugsrud med fru Birgit Ryding förderas tid i logen och deras varmagemenskap under tiden som de varit påbesök i logen under br. Jons DDtid. Blommor överlämnades och allaordensyskonen framförde varmaapplåder.

På scenen steg sedan kvällens höjd-punkt upp, det var Mia Poppe. Hon fram-förde välkända sånger från sin fars repor-toarer, bland filmer och teateruppsät-tningarna kan nämnas “Gränden i Gamlastan” “Saltaste bönan i stan.” På repor-toaren fanns också Charlie Chaplinsvälkända sång “Smile.”

Mellan sångerna berättade Mia om sinfars liv. Nils Poppe, (Nils Einar Jansson)föddes i Malmö 1908, han var ett hitte-barn som vid 2-års ålder fick ett arbe-tande par som sina fosterföräldrar. Delevde fattigt men fosterföräldrarna höllväl av honom. Denna uppväxt var sedanmed honom under hans levnadstid ochhan gestaltade gärna “den lilla män-niskan.”

Hans dröm var alltid att bli skåde-spelare och 1941 fick han sin första storapremiär i Stockholm på Oscars med “Blåjackor” tillsammans med Anna-lisaEricsson. Den uppsättning han mestälskade av alla dem han gjorde var“Lorden från gränden.” Han var en storbeundrare av Charlie Chaplin och hadehonom som en förebild i sitt arbete. ÄvenCharlie Chaplin kände till Nils Poppe.När Charlie Chaplin dog hittade manbland hans kvarlåtenskaper Nils Poppesfars “Pengar.”

Nils Poppe fick två anbud från

MSLER at Large Bertil Ericson, O GöstaLöfstedt och DD Greta Franzén.

Logens DD, Lars Saxbo, Winette Forssander,Greta Franzén, Inger Hammarlund och Jan-Åke Ferborn. Continued on next page


Hollywood men tackade nej, han ansågatt hans plats var i Sverige.

Nils Poppe var också en stor beun-drare av Evert Taube och under 35 årbodde Nils Poppe i Stockholm Han köpteett hus vid namn “Danderyds krog” ochMia Poppe berättade om en lustig episoddär Nils Poppe hade hållt på i trädgårdendå ett par kom spatserande och slog signer i hans trädgård och frågade om manfick beställa. “Självklart” sa Nils Poppe.När dem sedan hade fikat klart bad dematt få betala, då svarade Nils Poppe “detbjuder huset på.” Paret trodde att“Danderyds krog” var en krog och vissteinte att det var den välkända Nils Poppeshem.

När sedan Nils Poppe ville dra ner påtakten 1966 började han på Fredriksdahlsteatern i Helsingborg. Man började meden liten uppsättning av “en enkel man.”Under 17 år framfördes “Vita hästen” ochdet var där som Mia Poppe gjorde sindeput. 1975 framfördes “Fars lilla påg”som fick enorm framgång. Mia Poppeberättade att Nils Poppe själv gärna sattsig i biljettluckan och sålde biljetter baraför att njuta och glädjas av att alla biljet-ter blev slutsålda.

Nils Poppe arbetade på scen i 86 år,Han var gift två gånger, först med IngaLangdré och med henne fick han två barnoch sedan med Gunilla Sundberg somhan fick ytterligare två barn med och Miavar en av de barnen.

Nils Poppe avled år 2000 då var han92 år gammal och hans Fredriksdahlsteater forsatte sina föreställningar tillpublikens förtjusning genom den iSverige populära Eva Rydberg

Stora applåder uppstod efter MiaPoppes framträdande med pianist Jan-Erik Sandvik och ordförande för logenEskilstuna Nr 633 överlämande blommoroch passade även på att tacka br Bo ochsy Marianne Hjulström i logen EskilstunaNr 633 för att de hade ordnat med attlogen gästades av Mia Poppe.

Kvällen fortsatte sedan med att allabröderna denna kväll ställde sig på scenoch sjöng för kvinnorna. De avslutadesedan med att överlämna varsin blommatill alla kvinnorna i publiken.

Varmt tack logen Eskilstuna Nr 633och bröderna som gjorde denna kvällextra trevlig för oss kvinnor.

Submitted by: Elisabeth Agge,L. Enköping Nr 646

Ordf Hans Lundvall, Mia Poppe oh Jan-Erik Sandvik.

Walle Johansson

Logen Eskilstuna Nr 633Continued from previous page

Bröderna sjunger för oss kvinnor

Logen Höganäs Nr 634On April 12th, 70 members and guests

from other lodges were gathering to acultural evening with a very interestingprogram.

A member of the Westervik Lodge Nr679, Gunilla Öst, told us about the Östfamily, a famous musician family with avery affecting story.

From the same lodge came WalleJohansson who played his accordion andtold us “The truth of Hemsöborna.”

Once a year, our lodge makes a trip toan interesting place for a day or two. Thisyear our destination was Åhus and a visitat Folkestorp’s Brewery where the well-known Absolut Vodka was producedmany years ago. Today this brewery is amuseum and Absolut is produced inanother factory at Åhus.

The bus took us to Hotel Åhus Strandwhere we got a cheerful informationabout the Vodka and afterward we had a

delicious dinner before we went backhome again.

Submitted by: Berit and Hans Bogren


Logen Bråviken Nr 751

Logen Vadstena Nr 762

Ett alldeles underbart intryck gjordelogen Vadstena som tog Birgittahelgentill sig och lade in egna arrangemang.Den heliga Birgittas helg firas varje år,och man kan hoppas på att logenVadstena gör det till sin helg också.

Ordf. Stig Carlsson, med medhjälpare,såg till att Birgittahelgen blev ett Vasa-arrangemang. Nog kunde man se att BrStig vet hur man skall visa uppVadstenalogen. Det visades inte minst pådet stora antalet inbjudna gäster som del-tog.

På alla platser där Vasa Orden hadenågon aktivitet under helgen, fanns ocksåVasa Ordens “flaggspel” uppsatt. Den

svenska-, amerikanska-, kanadensiska-och Vasaflaggan, vajade vackert i som-marvärmen, och i mitten en skylt medVadstena Logen Nr 762, av Vasa Ordenav Amerika. Det blev mycket flyttande,men tillfället att synas utnyttjades underdenna helg.

Kunde det börja bättre! En strålandesol och härlig värme under denna sistadagen i maj månad 2008. Att sedan enhandfull vasasyskon från USA anslöt sigtill att fira och vara tillsammans med dennystartade Vadstenalogen blevnaturligtvis extra trevligt. Vasa-medlemmar dök också upp från Sverige,Västerås logen Engelbrekt, Logen

Filbyter och Logen Bråviken och så klartLogen Vadstenas DD Einar GrönSavolainen med fru från LogenLidköping.

Styrelsen i Logen Vadstenahade också inbjudet många andra gästerför att få presentera sin loge. Efterstyrkande förmiddagskaffe, begav mansig till stora torget och lyssnade till denofficiella uppstarten på Birgittahelgen.Med tal av “Gustav Vasa” i spetsen, ochmed nuvarande biståndsministern GunillaKarlsson.

Efter lunchen i Munklotstret blev deten föreläsning av Claes Westling, iVadstenalogens egna möteslokal, somhandlade om Vadstenas som handelsstadunder medeltiden. och därefter beskå-dades den utställning som finns om vårtstora författargeni Werner VonHeidenstam.

På eftermiddagen kunde man spelagolf, eller göra en stadsvandring blandVadstenas pittoreska bebyggelse ochaffärer.

Före middagen berättade Sy Lisbeth HQvarfordt om Vasa Orden och dess histo-ria och varför ett medlemskap i VasaOrden av Amerika är en livskvalité. Isamma veva överlämnade två personersina ansökningsformulär till Ordern.Vadstenalogen kommer att växa inteminst med hjälp av Ordf. Stig Carlssonoch hans medhjälpare i Styrelsen.

Kvällens middag avnjöts i Folk-högskolans matsal, som är belägen längsmed sjön. Vätterns strand erbjöd enotroligt vacker solnedgång i dess bråddju-pa vatten.

Alla hade lagt ned ett stort arbete medatt arrangera aktiviteter dennaBirgittahelg, som avslutades på söndagenmed Högmässa i Klosterkyrkan medefterföljande guidning, innan vi tillsam-mans intog en lunch på Valvet, som är enmedeltida byggnad i centrala Vadstena.

En extra eloge till Br. Stig som van-drade omkring och spred glädje underhela arrangemanget med sin värmandepersonlighet. Stig har nu också en brakontakt med företagarna i Vadstena-bygden och hans yrkesskicklighet somtidigare Storbonde på Sveriges kornbod,mäklare och revisor, vilket nu kommerlogen till nytta!

Ja det var en härlig Vadstenahelg. Detvar stort att se Vadstenalogens glädje isitt arrangemang, en nybildad loge, medvärme och full av skapar-idéer, vilket jagkänner igen och upplevde under logenBråvikens utveckling.

Submitted by: Lisbeth H QvarfordtPicture by: Inge Hallberg

Bråviken besökte Nynäs Slott i Södermanland, ett slott från 1600-talet fylld med vackra sakeroch fantastiska strukturer i taket. Vi fick även beskåda en vacker säng som bl a en tjej tillGustav den tredje sovit i!!!

Submitted by: Lisbeth Qvarfordt-Hallberg och Inge HallbergPhoto by: Inge Hallberg

Birgitta och Stig Carlsson t.h. med några gäster under Birgittahelgen. Från v blivande medlemSonia Delsby, Motala, Jan Andersson logen Engelbrekt Västerås. Daga Karin Lundqvist LogenGolden Valley #615 DL15, USA Ordf Stig Carlsson med Fru Markita.


En resa blandVasavänner

Under några dagar i maj passadevasamedlemmarna Karl-Erik Axelssonoch Elisabeth Agge, medlemmar i logenEnköping Nr 646 samt Linde loge Nr 492tillsammans med Lars-Åke Sjöberg ochHillivi Sjöberg, medlemmar från logenMälardrottningen Nr 563 samt LindeLoge Nr 492 att resa till USA och besökasina logevänner Lisa och Rolf Ekstrand iMilwaukee.

Vi umgicks i några dagar där innan viåkte vidare, med Frankenmuth iMichigan som mål, där Distrikts LogenMichigan Nr 8 hade sitt distriktsmöte ochfirade 100-års jubileum. Innan vi kom ditstannade vi till i Detroit och GreenfieldVillage vilket är mycket intressant his-toriskt sett. Där kan man bl a åka gamlaFordbilar, lära sig om Edisons glödlam-por m m.

Väl framme i Frankenmuth hademånga vasavänner samlats. ÄvenStorlogens ExB var närvarande underdessa dagar. Dagen innan mötet passadevi fyra från Sverige på att lära oss litetom staden Frankenmuth, samt återta vårbekanskap med Lisa Ekstrand ochMarion Bruce som vi hade haft bil-säll-skap med till Detriot. Vännerna Nancyoch Sten Hulth tog dessutom emot ossmed öppna armar. Elisabeth hade avlogen Linde Nr 492 samt Skansen Nr 113blivit utnämnd till att vara delegat förSkansen Nr 113 vilket var en trevlig ochintressant upplevelse. Vid mötets förstadag fick vi information om att DM J.Nystedt ej kunde närvara på grund avsjukdom och att VDM Sheila Lundquistunder dessa dagar skulle komma att fåleda mötet,vilket hon gjorde mycketvärdigt.

Under mötesdagarna fick vi tråkiganyheter, DM J Nystedt avled p g a sinsjukdom. Tankarna går ut till honom ochhans familj.

Mötet fortlöpte trots den sorgliganyheten på ett positivt sätt och på kvällengenomfördes en bankett med gratulation-er till logen Michigan Nr 8 på deras 100-års jubileum. Vi fick då möjlighet attumgås och sitta tillsammans med våravänner Jake och Marge Gruel, LisaEkstrand, Lars Jenner (Vasa arkivet) samtDave och Charlott Tollin.

Under denna kväll överlämnade ävenDL Michigan Nr 8 den nya utmärkelsensom var en specialtillverkad Vasaring tillDave Tollin för allt arbete han utfört förVasa Orden av Amerika i Distrikt Nr 8och i Vasa Arkivet.

När Distriktsmötet började nå sitt slutframförde Elisabeth Agge ett tack till DLMichigan Nr 8 för deras gästfrihet från devasamedlemmar som kom från Sverigeoch närvarade under dessa dagar. Det varBertil Ericsson och Tore Tellberg frånStorlogens ExB, Margaretha Tellberg,Logen Sundsvall Nr 705, Lars-Åke ochHillivi Sjöberg logen MälardrottningenNr 563 samt Karl-Erik Axelsson ochElisabeth själv från Logen Enköping Nr646.

Varmt tack till logen Viking Nr 730och DL Michigan Nr 8 för ett mycket

trevliga mottagande av oss svenskarunder det fina distriktsmötet. Vi önskarde nya ExB med DM Sheila Lundquistlycka till i deras arbete.

Vi fyra svenskar, Sjöbergs, Axelssonoch Agge begav oss vidare till AmishCountry vilket gav oss en blick in iAmishfolkets kultur. Naturen var dessu-tom mycket vacker.

Resan gick sedan sakta vidare upp tillChicago och med fyllda resväskor restevi hem till Sverige.

Submitted by:Elisabeth Agge, LL 646/492

Rolf Ekstrand LL Nr 492, Lars-Åke SjöbergLL Nr 563, Karl-Erik Axelsson LL Nr 646försöker få ner packningen i bilen.

Hillivi Sjöberg och Elisabeth Agge tar enpaus i resandet.

YOUTH NEWSDear Members of the Vasa Order ofAmerica,

My brother Zachary and I would liketo offer you our deepest gratitude for theprivileges that have been granted to us.This summer you have been kind enoughto award Zachary with a scholarship toSjölunden. I was awarded that samescholarship in 2005 so I know how muchfun he will have. We have had continu-ous support from our Miami Lodge #554,with Sister Secretary Jean Dahlgren andSr. Chairman Sonia Farrow. These lead-ing ladies helped make it possible.Zachary and I are incredibly grateful forour wonderful opportunities from thesegiving women. Without their patience,together with the Vasa Order ofAmerica’s generosity, Zachary and Iwould never of been able to experiencethe greatness and life lessons all packedin to two weeks of camp. Thank youagain so much for everything.

Sincerely,Natasha and Zachary Henderson Natasha and Zachary Henderson

Sjölunden Winners


AUDIO-VISUALDIRECTOR

Todd Anderson1383 Middlebrook Way

Rohnert Park, CA, 94928Cell Phone: (707) 694-1345

E-mail:[email protected]

The Vasa website atwww.vasaorder.com containsa “materials button” whichhas the listing of audio visualmaterials available.

If you are unable to use theVasa website, you can still askthat a listing be sent to you bymail.

CULTUREAllemansrätten

Den svenska Allemansrätten är unik.Den har i många århundraden funnitsbara som en sedvanerätt, men sedan 1994är den en del av den svenska konstitutio-nen. Allemansrätten ger folk möjlighet attvara ute i naturen för rekreation, någotmånga svenskar tycker om.

Enligt Allemansrätten får man vistasnästan överallt i naturen; promenera,cykla, rida och åka skidor, bara manrespekterar andra människors privatliv.

Man får plocka vilda bär, blommoroch svamp, liksom nedfallna kvistar ochgrenar.

Det finns emellertid vissa blommorsom är så sällsynta att det är risk för attde ska bli utrotade. De är därför skyddadeenligt lag (fridlysta) och får inte plockas,så är t.ex. fallet med alla orkidéer i helalandet.

Backsippan, Pulsatilla vulgaris, är enannan fridlyst, sällsynt blomma, som baragår att hitta på några få ställen i södraSverige. I april eller början av maj blom-mar hundratals av dem på en kulle utan-för Vimmerby. Då kommer massor avmänniskor dit för att se på de stora,klocklika, blå-violetta blommorna.

Man får fritt fiska med spö utefter helaSveriges kust och i våra fem störstainsjöar. För att fiska i andra vatten for-dras ett speciellt fiskekort.

Hundar får inte springa lösa i skog ochmark mellan den 1 mars och 20 augusti.

Speciella, lagskyddade naturområdenär Sveriges 28 nationalparker. Den nästminsta ligger i Norra Kvill, en välbevaradurskog, där några av tallarna är över 350år.

Det är förbjudet att skräpa ned inaturen. Glas, burkar och kapsyler kanskada både människor och djur. Ett nytt,stort problem är den stora användningenav plastpåsar, som kan orsaka mycketlidande om djuren får dem i sig.

Det finns flera regler att tänka på, dåman vistas i naturen, men sunt förnuftoch huvudregeln för Allemansrättenborde kunna räcka: ” Inte störa – inteförstöra”.

Right of Public Access Sweden’s Right of Public Access is

unique. For many centuries it has existedas a customary law only, but since 1994it is part of the Swedish constitution. Itgives you many opportunities for outdoorrecreation something many Swedes enjoyvery much.

The Right of Public Access (alleman-srätten) gives you the right to access,walk, and cycle, ride and ski almosteverywhere in the countryside, as long asyou respect other people’s privacy.

You are allowed to pick wild berries,flowers and mushrooms, as well as twigsand branches that have fallen to theground.

There are, however, certain flowerspecies that are so rare that they run therisk of being extinct. They are thereforeprotected by law and must not be picked,so are (for example) orchids throughoutall of Sweden. Backsippan, Pulsatillavulgaris, is one of the protected rareflowers, which can be seen only in fewplaces of southern Sweden. In April, or atthe beginning of May, there are hundreds

of them blooming on a hill outside ofVimmerby. Lots of people come to seethe large, bell-shaped, blue-violet flowersduring this time.

You may fish freely with a fishingpole along the coastline and in Sweden’sfive largest lakes. Fishing in other lakesrequires a fishing licence.

Dogs are not allowed to run loose inthe countryside from March 1st untilAugust 20th.

Special protected natural areas areSweden’s 28 national parks. The secondsmallest park is Norra (North) Kvill, awell preserved primeval forest outside ofVimmerby. Some of the pine trees in thisarea are more than 350 years old.

All sorts of littering are absolutely for-bidden in the countryside. Glass, tins andbottle caps can harm both people and ani-mals. Today a major problem is the fre-quent use of plastic bags which can causemuch suffering to animals.

There are more regulations to followbut common sense and the basic principleof The Right of Public Access should beenough: “Don’t disturb, don’t destroy.”

Submitted by: Gun Lith, GLCD, SLKL

Backsippor vid Djursdala, utanför Vimmerby, Småland, i maj 2008. Photo: Backsippan, Pulsatilla vulgaris in Djursdala, outside of Vimmerby (Småland) in May of 2008.

Picture by: Gunnar Lith.


The Swedish-American inventor, JohnEricsson (1803-1889) is best rememberedfor his Monitor, the turreted ironclad war-ship during the Civil War. He was a veryprivate man who shunned publicity. Afterthe battle at Hampton Roads he couldhave been in the limelight if he had visit-ed the Monitor like President Lincoln,Nathaniel Hawthorne and newspaperreporters, but he preferred solitude andcontinued designing at his house onManhattan. After his death people beganto look back at the life of a great man andtried to commemorate his achievementsboth in Europe and the United States. Hebecame a symbol of national pride and aninteresting part of the history of the indus-trial revolution. My biography is based onexperience from the time I went to Schoolin Filipstad near John’s place of birth andburial, and twenty years in the US.

During his lifetime John Ericsson hadto fight much opposition but his collabo-rator Charles W. MacCord expressed theview: “It is safe to say that the memory ofJohn Ericsson will be great in the mindsof men and even in England he was notforgotten. John M. Kenworthy, Lt.Commander of the Royal Navy and mem-ber of Parliament said in 1930: “JohnEricsson was one of the greatest marineengineers and architects the world hasknown. He was the pioneer of the screwpropeller.” Even Winston Churchill in1939 praised Ericsson’s Monitor a shipthat finally leads to a reconstruction of theBritish Navy.

It is understandable that particularlySwedish-Americans were proud of theircountryman. One of them was CarlSandburg, who in his memoirs Always theYoung Strangers gives us a funny glimpseof what happened when he as a boybecame interested in small biographiesfound in cigarette boxes.

“In the list I noticed John Ericsson, theinventor of the Monitor, the Swede whohelped the North win the war. I tried butcouldn’t scare up a copy of the JohnEricsson. A Swede boy pulled one out ofhis vest pocket one day and grinned at

me. He knew I wanted it. I offered him apenny for it and went as high as a nickeland he shook his head.”

We should, however, not forget thatthe Monitor Man did much more thanbuild warships, he also designed manypractical things such as small energy sav-ing hot-air engines and above all he wasthe visionary pioneer of solar energy andpredicted that we would one day run outof fuel. The remains of these inventionsattracted public attention much later and afew remaining constructions and modelsnow are on display at the AmericanSwedish Museum in Philadelphia and theTechnical Museum in Stockholm.

In 1889 New York decided to com-memorate John Ericsson with a monu-ment. The Legislature of New York Cityby an unusual act appropriated ten thou-sand dollars to erect it to the memory ofthe great inventor. It was to be the firststatue ever erected at the expense of themunicipality. It took a long time to choosethe proper place, but in 1893 a bronzestatue showing the inventor standing on agranite pedestal was erected in BatteryPark.

In the Swedish settlements of Americapeople were justly proud of their famousfellow countryman and they took everyopportunity to celebrate not his birthday,but the anniversary of the battle ofHampton Roads, on March 9 when theMonitor met the “Merrimack” inhistory’s first battle of armored warships.

In 1926 another monument honoringJohn Ericsson was erected inWashington’s Potomac Park, near thehuge Lincoln Memorial. The unveilingceremony was performed by PresidentCalvin Coolidge and Crown PrinceGustav Adolf of Sweden. The event wasalso commemorated by the issue of a5-cent U.S. postage stamp showing thestatue and the shields of the United Statesand Sweden. In 1907 the John EricssonSociety of New York was founded with theaim “To perpetuate the memory ofCaptain John Ericsson and to disseminateinformation concerning the life and works

of him.” In the Swedish AmericanMuseum in Philadelphia have a valuablecollection of Ericsson memorabilia and anarchive of his correspondence.

In the US three warships were namedafter Ericsson, the first in 1890, the sec-ond in 1912 and finally in 1941 thedestroyer Ericsson which actively partici-pated in combat in the second World War.

Ericsson in SwedenIn his homeland there are two statues

of John Ericsson, one in Stockholm andthe other in Gothenburg. - Värmland, thebirthplace is particularly proud of theirfamous son and there are yearly birthdaycelebrations in Filipstad on July 31st witha colorful re-enactment of the battle of theironclads on Lake Daglösen. It takes placeclose to the Ericsson mausoleum over-looking the water near two big cannonsfrom a Swedish monitor.

Dr. Mark D. Hirsch of New York in1954 wrote: “John Ericsson’s stage wasthe world. To associate him alone withour city, or State, or even the nation, is todemean him, to make parochial hisboundless mental endowment andindomitable spirit. He was a selfless,devoted servant of mankind.” MarkTwain once said: “I think we neverbecome really and genuinely our entireand honest selves until we have been deadyears and years. People ought to startdead and then they would be honest somuch earlier.”

The most recent important memorial ofthe great inventor after the Monitor dis-covery and rescue operations is the USSMonitor Center at the Mariner’s Museumin Newport News.

The Man Who Made the MonitorA biography of John Ericsson, Naval Engineer

byOLAV THULESIUS

(McFarland, 2007)

His inventions was not the result of waking dream.


HAPPENINGS

THANK YOU

The Swedish Language Class in Los Gatos, CA, is pictured at the lovely home ofSandra Rains. The students are very enthusiastic about learning the Swedish language.This picture was taken during the coffee break and relaxation.

Submitted by: Gerd Salmonson

Swedish Language Class To Whom It MayConcern

To The Vasa Order of America - Grand LodgeI express my appreciation for the Grand Lodge Elderhostel Award for the experi-

ences acquired while attending the John C. Campbell Folk School Scandinavian Weekof March 23-29, 2008.

While attending The Cooking of Scandinavia session, it was very enlightening toindividually experience the traditions of preparing and presentation of typicalScandinavian cuisine. Beside the preparation, the cultural experiences learned weremany as the theme was Scandinavian Heritage Week for this session.

Each day was started with a community gathering for traditions and singing, fol-lowed by breakfast in family style (for all meals). The food preparation was with anaccent on Scandinavian specialties for all attendees in a common dining area. Themorning continued with each specific class. Lunch was followed by videos or perfor-mances of Scandinavian culture. Continuing the afternoon class creations and learningwas followed by dinner. The evening was filled with various programs of local cultur-al and Scandinavian themes that included music and/or dancing.

We were fortunate in preparing the foods to provide a complete dinner for our classmates, spouses and invited guests, plus we could treat other classes to our creationsthroughout the week. The classes helped us share the cakes and desserts so we too didnot over indulge.

During the last evening was a “show and tell” for all the crafts, where we provideda porridge and dessert, while others classes included weaving, rosemaling, knitting,wood carving turning and bending, music, stained glass, clay molding and painting,basketry and blacksmithing.

As my wife attended the same class, we are looking forward to sharing with theyouth in our Viking Village Camp of over 30 youths this year. Gunlog was especiallyhelpful in providing more in depth Swedish culture to the class as well as the daily andevening programs. We established a number of new friendships while enjoying thesetting of southern North Carolina and the Appalachian hill country.

Fraternally,Gary Spaberg

I am writing on behalf of a goodfriend and member named MartinJohnson of West Hartford, CT. His part-ner is my mother, Ethel Saaf, who Ibelieved was the treasurer or collecteddues for 40 years at Norden Lodge #1.

I am also a member since a young kidbut live in New York City now and amnot really able to attend meetings.

I just wanted to let someone know thatMartin (Bud) Johnson was in the UConnMedical Dempsey Hospital in Farming-ton after having a stroke.

I’m hoping to find people that mayknow him as we are trying to get peopleto try to visit or contact him. And I don’tknow where to start.

Thanks for any help you can give mewith this.

Sincerely,Robert Saaf, Norden Lodge #1,

Hartford, Conneticut917-733-6144 cell

[email protected]

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